Effect of tool shoulder and pin probe profiles on friction stirred aluminum welds — a comparative study

Abstract

In marine application, marine grade steel is generally used for haul and superstructures. However, aluminum has also become a good choice due to its lightweight qualities, while rusting of aluminum is minimal compared to steel. In this paper a study on friction stir welding of aluminum alloys was presented. The present investigation deals with the effects of different friction stir welding tool geometries on mechanical strength and the microstructure properties of aluminum alloy welds. Three distinct tool geometries with different types of shoulder and tool probe profiles were used in the investigation according to the design matrix. The effects of each tool shoulder and probe geometry on the weld was evaluated. It was also observed that the friction stir weld tool geometry has a significant effect on the weldment reinforcement, microhardness, and weld strength.

Keywords

friction stir welding / tool geometries / weld strength / weld cross section area

References

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